Functions and Benefits of Sunscreen: Important for Maintaining Skin Health
Even though you've tried various skincare products, the problems on my facial skin haven't improved. Maybe you wonder what might be the issue?
Actually, when the facial skin is having problems, the first thing that needs to be addressed is the skin barrier. Skin issues can occur due to a damaged skin barrier. To repair the skin barrier, the solution is to go back to the basics of skincare.
One of the basic skincare essentials for maintaining healthy skin is sunscreen. In this article, L'Occitane will discuss the functions of sunscreen that can help resolve various skin problems. So, please read on!
What is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a substance that is made to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation present in sunlight.
The UV rays carried by sunlight are generally divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Of these three types of ultraviolet, only UVA and UVB successfully penetrate the ozone layer and reach the ground.
It's important to know that exposure to UV rays can be harmful to skin health. According to the American Cancer Society, UVA can cause indirect damage to skin cells and lead to premature skin aging. Meanwhile, UVB is known to directly damage skin cells and result in skin cancer.
To protect the skin from the dangers caused by UV radiation exposure, sunscreen works by reflecting, absorbing, and breaking down UVA and UVB.
Functions of Sunscreen for the Skin
The main function of sunscreen, as we understand from the definition above, is to protect the skin from the dangers of UV radiation. From this primary function, sunscreen has derivative functions that will be beneficial for long-term skin health.
Here are the functions and benefits of sunscreen for the skin:
1. Preventing Sunburn
Outdoor activities can be a pleasure or an obligation for some people. It is already a well-known fact that sunlight at certain times can be beneficial for the body.
However, outside of those specific times, the sun can become an enemy, both in the long-term and short-term. The UVA contained in sunlight plays a role in indirectly damaging skin cells, which can lead to sunburn.
Therefore, the use of sunscreen becomes necessary to help protect the skin from the adverse effects of UV radiation that can cause sunburn
2. Preventing Premature Skin Aging
Skin aging can be caused by two factors: intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external).
Intrinsic factors are the aging that occurs due to hormonal changes, genetic factors, and cellular mechanisms. Extrinsic factors are the aging that occurs due to ultraviolet radiation and unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and others.
Generally, the extrinsic factors of skin aging are more easily controlled and prevented compared to intrinsic factors. In this case, one of the things that can prevent premature skin aging is the use of sunscreen in daily life.
As mentioned earlier, sunscreen can help reflect, absorb, and scatter UV radiation exposure, thereby preventing premature aging caused by UV radiation.
3. Treating and Preventing Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation
The appearance of dark spots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can lower the self-confidence of some people. This can occur or worsen due to exposure to UV radiation. Therefore, one way to care for and prevent the occurrence of hyperpigmentation and the appearance of dark spots is through the use of sunscreen.
Several studies have shown that sunscreens with UV protection play an important role in managing hyperpigmentation and can improve the appearance of the face, especially for those with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
L'Occitane Reine Blanche Illuminating UV Shield sunscreen is one that has brightening technology. So, in addition to protecting the skin from UV rays, this sunscreen can fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, as well as brighten the skin with meadowsweet and white mulberry extracts.
4. Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer
Did you know the most commonly found type of skin cancer? According to the American Cancer Society, the most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both of which tend to be found on parts of the skin that can be exposed to sunlight.
Several studies have also found that both of these cancer types are associated with the habit of sun exposure. Therefore, sunscreen can play a role in reducing the risk of skin cancer because its use can protect the skin from excessive UV exposure.
These are the beneficial functions of sunscreen for your skin health. From simple skin problems to more complex ones.
Therefore, never forget to include sunscreen in your skincare routine!
